Grant and Funding Programs Offered by Elks of Canada

Elks of Canada is a national fraternal and charitable organization that brings together local lodges across the country to support community well‑being. Through member fundraising, events and partnerships, these lodges collect resources that are redistributed as direct donations, small grants and bursaries to organizations and individuals in need. This makes the Elks an important grassroots funding channel for many smaller projects that might not access large institutional programs.

The organization typically supports initiatives related to children and youth, health and medical needs, accessibility, recreation, and community services. Many lodges also participate in scholarship or bursary programs that help students pursue post‑secondary education, and in emergency or hardship assistance for families facing unexpected crises.

Funding from Elks of Canada generally flows to local non‑profits, schools, clubs, hospitals and care facilities, as well as to individual beneficiaries identified through community referrals. Because decisions are often made at the lodge level, support can be tailored to very specific local priorities—such as playgrounds, sports teams, community halls, medical equipment or programs for children with special needs.

This decentralized model allows the Elks to reach communities of all sizes, including rural and small‑town areas. National and regional charitable funds complement local efforts by pooling resources for larger projects, specialized medical support and broader child‑ and youth‑focused initiatives.

While the specific procedures may vary by lodge or provincial association, funding requests are typically assessed on their benefit to the community, the clarity and feasibility of the project, and alignment with the Elks’ charitable objectives. Lodges tend to prioritise initiatives that directly improve quality of life, particularly for children, youth and vulnerable residents, and that demonstrate responsible use of donated funds.

Elks of Canada operates as a registered non‑profit governed by elected volunteer leaders at national, provincial and lodge levels. Funds raised through member activities and community events are tracked and reported through internal financial procedures and, where applicable, through charitable reporting requirements. This structure aims to ensure that money collected in the name of charity is transparently managed and directed to community projects with clear public benefit.